Healthy communication is how two people share feelings, needs, and thoughts in a kind way. It helps people feel safe and close. At Doria Therapeutic Group, we help couples learn the skills that make talking easier and kinder.
Why Communication Matters
Good talk makes trust grow. When we talk well, we can solve small problems before they grow. We feel heard. We feel loved. This keeps a relationship strong.
Listening With Care
Listening is more than hearing words. It means looking at the person. It means not planning your answer while they speak. Try this:
- Look at your partner when they talk.
- Let them finish before you speak.
- Say back what you heard in simple words. For example: “You feel sad today.”
- This helps your partner know you care.
Speaking Clearly and Kindly
Say what you feel. Use short sentences. Be brave and honest. Try to say “I feel” instead of “You always.” For example:
- Say: “I feel lonely when you work late.”
- Not: “You never spend time with me.”
- Clear, calm words help people listen. Kind words keep feelings safe.
Use Simple Requests
Ask for what you need. A simple request works best. Try: “Can you help me with dinner tonight?” Not: “You should do more.” When people get direct requests, they can choose to help.
Stop Yelling and Blaming
Yelling makes the other person shut down. Blame makes people hurt. If you feel very angry, take a short break. Say, “I need five minutes.” Then come back and talk when you are calm.
Say Sorry and Mean It
We all make mistakes. Saying sorry helps heal. A real sorry says what you did and how you will change. For example: “I am sorry I raised my voice. Next time, I will pause and breathe.”
Use Small Moments to Connect
Healthy talk is not only for big fights. It is in small moments, too. Say thank you. Share a funny story. Tell your partner one thing you liked about their day. These small moments build joy.
Handle Big Feelings Together
Big feelings can scare us. If someone feels very sad or scared, listen more. Say: “I am here. I will stay with you.” If the problem is too big, it is okay to ask for help. We can work with you at Doria Therapeutic Group in individual or couples therapy.
Talk About Rules You Both Agree On
Make simple rules for hard talks. For example:
- No name-calling.
- No phones at the table.
- Take a break if yelling starts.
- Rules keep talks safe and fair.
Use “I” Messages
“I” messages help you speak about your feelings without blame. Start with “I feel” and say the reason. For example: “I feel hurt when plans change last minute.” This helps your partner hear you without getting defensive.
Show You Are Listening With Actions
Actions matter. If your partner asks for a hug, give a hug. If they ask for help, help them. Saying you care and showing it match up.
What to Do If You Keep Fighting
If the same fights come back, get help. A trained therapist can teach new ways to talk. At Doria Therapeutic Group, we offer:
- Couples Therapy to help partners find new ways to connect.
- Family Therapy when more people are involved.
- Group Therapy to learn from others.
- Individual Therapy for personal work.
Dr. Michael J. Doria leads our team. He knows how to help people after hard times. He worked in the U.S. Coast Guard and then focused on counseling. He is gentle and strong. He helps people heal from trauma and big life changes.
How We Help You Learn New Skills
We teach simple steps you can practice at home. We teach you how to listen, how to inquire, and how to remain composed. You will try small exercises in a safe space. You will learn to talk in ways that help, not hurt.
When to Get Professional Help
Get help if:
- You feel scared in the relationship.
- You or your partner hurt each other on purpose.
- You feel stuck and can’t fix the same problem.
- We are here to guide you. You do not have to fix everything alone.
Small Steps You Can Try Today
- Put away phones for 10 minutes and talk.
- Take turns sharing one good thing from your day.
- Try a calm sentence: “I need help with this.”
- Say thank you for one small thing.
- Small steps add up.
Closing Thought
Healthy communication is simple and kind. It takes practice. It takes two people who want to try. If you want help learning new ways to talk, we are here. At Doria Therapeutic Group, we walk with you. We help couples, families, and individuals find calm and care. You can build a safer, kinder way to speak and to listen. You are not alone.
FAQs
Q. What if we keep fighting about the same thing?
If fights repeat, ask for help. We at Doria Therapeutic Group can teach new ways to talk.
Q. What happens in couples therapy?
We help you practice talking and listening. We show simple steps you can try at home.
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